Newcastle are considering moves for Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche and Lille’s Jonathan David, according to TBR Football.
The website claims that sporting director Paul Mitchell is particularly “keen” on Akliouche, who is a player he has watched closely over recent months.
With the Magpies looking to strengthen their options on the right wing, Akliouche could be considered as a solution.
Although he can be deployed as a No.10, he has played the majority of his football for Monaco on the right wing, cutting in onto his stronger left foot.
After missing out on Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise, Akliouche is seen as a realistic alternative by Mitchell, who is looking to use his strong contacts on the continent to bring in new signings.
What about Newcastle’s interest in David?
The club have been pursuing the Lille striker for longer than Akliouche, and there is a good chance that he will be available during the January transfer window.
David’s contract expires next summer and it will be the last chance for Lille to raise some money from selling the Canadian international.
However, the forward’s availability has attracted other potential suitors with five other Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, Aston Villa, Brighton, Chelsea and West Ham, also contemplating bids.
The power struggle between Mitchell and Howe
While Mitchell is aiming to bring in both Akliouche and David, it remains to be seen whether manager Eddie Howe agrees with the decision.
There seems to be a difference in philosophy between Mitchell and Howe, with the former looking to snap up players from the continent for lower prices, while the latter is prepared to pay a premium for signings who already have Premier League experience. It is not known whether the pair will compromise on their approaches.
Find out who is in Newcastle United’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here